Injury Denies Dessers AFCON Debut Appearance, Returns To Greece

Injury Denies Dessers AFCON Debut Appearance, Returns To Greece 

By Niyi Busari 

Cyriel Dessers’ hopes of making his Africa Cup of Nations debut have been cut short after injury forced his withdrawal from the Super Eagles squad at the ongoing 2025 AFCON in Morocco, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The forward has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a thigh injury and has been granted permission to return to his club, Panathinaikos of Greece, for further treatment and recovery. Dessers joined the Greek side on a three-year contract in September 2025 after leaving Rangers FC.

His exit marks the first injury-enforced departure from the Super Eagles camp during the competition.

At Friday evening’s training session, 25 players—including star striker Victor Osimhen—were involved, while Ryan Alebiosu and Tochukwu Nnadi observed from the sidelines. Alebiosu, who was initially feared to have played his last game following the group-stage match against Uganda, remains in camp but did not participate as he continues recovery from a leg injury. Nnadi, meanwhile, was unavailable due to illness.

Head coach Eric Chelle has since addressed the squad, urging the players to put their group-stage achievements behind them and fully refocus on the demands of the knockout phase.

Nigeria will face Mozambique on Monday in the Round of 16, as the Super Eagles continue their quest for fourth continental glory.